Ms. Mallis began her career in fashion as an intern at Mademoiselle Magazine. The magazine, famous for its “college issue” was published from 1935 to 1993. She awed the luncheon audience with her amusing and informative stories about her fashion career. Her advice to young, upcoming designers was “be nice”.

Clothing designer AnnaBelle LaRogue has a boutique in Columbia. The influence of Lilly Pulitzer is obvious in her floral print dresses. Jewelry designer Anne Hughes Windermuller believes that jewelry is more than bling. It is an extension of one’s personality. She works with semi-precious gemstones, sterling silver, and 14K gold fill to create unique one of a kind pieces. Steve Madden, a quintessential New Yorker, is founder of the footwear company that bears his name.

Afriyie Poku, who stole the show last year, presented his line Oberima Afriyie at the Tivoli Studios on King Street. Like his clothes the show was unique. Instead of the typical runway presentation, it was a fluid interaction of models and audience. It was a scene that could have been staged by the late Merce Cunningham.

Charleston Fashion Week continues to push the fashion envelope. Charleston fashion is no-longer ten years behind but is a fashion leader.

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Marie-Louise Moreto is a certified fashion/image consultant and the president of MLM Personal Development. She brings seven years of television, film, stage and print work to her work as an image consultant. She obtained her certification as a fashion image consulting from the Parson’s School of Design and a Bachelor of Science degree in sociology from the College of Charleston. Marie-Louise may be contacted at mmoreto@mlmpersonaldevelopment.com.